The Abortion Pill
Abortion Pill Information
An unplanned or unexpected pregnancy can feel like an overwhelming experience for anyone – single, in a relationship, or married. Thinking about the future and the unknowns can feel daunting.
The best news is you don’t need to face your pregnancy alone. Before deciding your next steps, including the abortion pill, we can help you learn about the process and risks.
How Does the Abortion Pill Work?
How the abortion pill works.
The abortion pill, or medication abortion, is a non-surgical method of terminating a pregnancy. It involves taking two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol, over a few days. This method of abortion is only effective during the first ten weeks of pregnancy.
An ultrasound can confirm if you’re unsure how far along you are. Her Choice Birmingham offers no-cost pregnancy ultrasounds.
Over 10 weeks pregnant?
If you are over ten weeks, you cannot use the abortion pills to end your pregnancy. A surgical abortion is needed after ten weeks.
Some common
Abortion Pill Fears
An unexpected pregnancy can create a range of emotions like fear and uncertainty. It is essential to seek support and guidance from a professional with experience in this area. Her Choice Birmingham counselors speak with women across Central and North Alabama daily about pregnancy and abortion options. They are available to you through a free and confidential appointment.
Some common
Abortion Pill Risks
According to the Mayo Clinic and The National Library of Medicine, there are some potential risks and complications to be aware of. These risks include the possibility of an incomplete abortion, heavy bleeding, infection, fever, digestive system discomfort, and emotional distress.
Sometimes, the abortion pill may not terminate the pregnancy altogether, requiring further treatment or surgery. The medication can also cause heavy bleeding, which may need medical attention. While the risk of infection is lower than with surgical abortion, there is still a small risk of developing an infection. Additionally, women report emotional distress, guilt, or regret after taking the abortion pill.
You can also learn more about abortion pill risks and how they work in the article 10 Risks and Side Effects of Abortion Pills.
Some Things to Consider Before Taking the Abortion Pill
Consider the following to help you know if you can take the abortion pill. You can also review the full article “Some things I need to know before having an abortion” for additional details.
The stage of your pregnancy.
Abortion pills are only effective during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, so knowing how far along your pregnancy is is essential.
The location of your pregnancy.
If you have an ectopic pregnancy (your pregnancy is outside your uterus), abortion pills are not safe for you. In this case, you should receive medical care immediately.
The viability of your pregnancy.
If your pregnancy is not viable, there may be no reason to take abortion pills.
The legality of abortion.
Each state has different abortion laws. If you want to know where to get an abortion in Birmingham, be aware that abortion in the State of Alabama is only available under very limited circumstances.
Review all your pregnancy options.
There are government and nonprofit resources to make other options like parenting or adoption available to you.
Your personal health in relation to abortion procedures.
There are health concerns that can cause serious health risks during a chemical abortion.
Learn more about each of these in the resource: Some things I need to know before having an abortion.
Her Choice Birmingham offers free pregnancy ultrasounds with an appointment. To get a free pregnancy ultrasound at Her Choice Birmingham, request a free appointment.
What my doctor needs to know before I take the abortion pill.
Being honest with your healthcare provider about any medical conditions or medications you are taking is important. Certain medical conditions or medications may make the abortion pill less effective or increase the risk of complications.
In case you wondered…
Can the Abortion Pill be reversed?
The “abortion pill” involves two medications, mifepristone, and misoprostol, over a few days. Abortion pill reversal is most effective after taking the first abortion pill. It cannot stop an abortion after the second medication. If you have taken the first pill, mifepristone, and changed your mind, contact our office or visit abortionpillreversal.com immediately.
Sometimes we all just…
Need someone to talk to?
Her Choice Birmingham offers free pregnancy counseling appointments. Your information and conversation remain confidential. To get a no-cost pregnancy counseling or post-abortion support appointment, request a free appointment.
To schedule a free appointment:
Call (205) 252-0706
Text (205) 252-0706
or fill out our online appointment form.
Appointments preferred. Walk-ins welcome.
After Hours: Call 1-800-712-HELP (4357) 24 hours a day.
Her Choice Birmingham Women’s Center serves the surrounding communities of Birmingham, Alabama helping women facing an unplanned pregnancy, to work through their options. We offer free and confidential pregnancy tests, limited ultrasounds, counseling, support after abortion, and parent resources for women in the Birmingham area.
2120 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233